Interactions on record — worth a quick check against your medications. Based on 1 of 2 ingredients. Check your meds →
Dietary supplement

Broken Cell Wall Chlorella Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Swanson

Broken Cell Wall Chlorella label
See full label image
Tablet Or Pill Category: Botanical With Nutrients
Most serious interaction: Moderate
Clinical methodology reviewed by · Updated Sep 9, 2026 · Label data from the NIH DSLD
What is this page for?

First and foremost: checking Broken Cell Wall Chlorella against your medications. The heart of this page is the interaction checker and the full interaction report — how this product’s ingredients may interact with prescription and over-the-counter medicines you may be taking.

Around that, we add a pharmacist’s high-level view of the product as a whole — what’s inside, the evidence for its stated use, how transparent the label is, and what safety data exists — so you can see the full picture in one place. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases and the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist — not medical advice — and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy

The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Moderate

Broken Cell Wall Chlorella is a dietary supplement by Swanson with 2 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for general nutrition and 'detox' support, immune support, liver and kidney support.Based on those ingredients, 337 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Chlorella. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

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Check Your Meds Against Broken Cell Wall Chlorella by Swanson

Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Broken Cell Wall Chlorella by Swanson — and tell you which ingredient is responsible.

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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Broken Cell Wall Chlorella by Swanson

Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.

From our pharmacy team — supplement deep dive

Generated from HelloPharmacist’s pharmacist-curated databases and editorial rules · Last generated Jul 11, 2026

What’s inside

Full disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Full

Every active ingredient lists its own amount on the label.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 1 of its 1 active ingredient.
  • No proprietary blends here — you can verify the dose of every single component.

This product contains one active ingredient: chlorella, a single-celled freshwater algae. The version here is broken cell wall chlorella, meaning the algae's outer membrane has been disrupted to make the nutrients inside easier for your body to absorb.

There are no inactive ingredients listed.

Does it work?

Moderate evidence
Evidence for Intended Use · database check
By FDA rules, dietary supplements can’t claim to treat, cure, or prevent disease — so labels speak in careful marketing language. We discern each product’s intended use from its name, label claims, and label statements, then grade the clinical evidence for that use. How these ratings are computed

This product doesn't appear to be marketed for a specific use, so we graded Chlorella's overall clinical evidence instead.

Moderate

Some clinical evidence supports Chlorella for:

Why this rating?
  • The label markets general wellness (“overall health and wellness support”), not a specific health condition, so there is no single claim to grade against clinical-evidence data.
  • Since the label doesn't commit to one use, we graded the ingredient's overall clinical evidence instead.
  • On file: Pregnancy-related iron deficiency — rated "Possibly Effective" (Natural Medicines).

The evidence on what chlorella works for is mixed. It's rated possibly effective for pregnancy-related iron deficiency—meaning there's some promising research but not enough yet to be sure.

For brain tumor, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, depression, and fatigue, the evidence we hold is insufficient to know either way. If you're considering chlorella for any of these uses, talk with your doctor about what research backs your particular reason.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Chlorella

How safe is it?

Well-documented data
Safety Information · database check
Well characterized

Adverse-effect, pregnancy, and general safety data are on file for most of these ingredients.

Why this rating?
  • We hold adverse-effect (side-effect) data for 1 of the 1 matched ingredient.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 1 of 1.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 1 of 1.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Chlorella is generally well tolerated in the short term, though quality and purity vary widely between products—that's worth knowing. The most common side effects are allergic reactions, stomach cramping, constipation or diarrhea, fatigue, gas, nausea, and a greenish discoloring of stool, especially in the first two weeks.

A small number of people report photosensitivity (sun-related skin reactions) or, rarely, serious allergic reactions like anaphylaxis. The safety data for long-term use isn't solid, so use only if your doctor approves.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Chlorella

Meds to double-check

Moderate interaction found
Known Interaction Concern · database check
Moderate identified

The most serious documented interaction for these ingredients is Moderate. Check your medications for a personalized result.

Why this rating?
  • 1 of the 1 matched ingredient can interact with medications — Chlorella.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs.
  • For scale: 337 individual medications appear in the full list. A big number alone doesn't make a product dangerous — what matters is whether YOUR medication is on it, so run yours through the interaction checker on this page.

Check with your pharmacist before taking this if you're on warfarin or another blood thinner—chlorella's vitamin K content could make it less effective. Also double-check if you take any photosensitizing drugs that make your skin more reactive to sun exposure.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with some supporting evidence behind its ingredients' uses. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

Chlorella might be worth considering if you're pregnant and iron-deficient, or if your doctor specifically recommends it. If you take warfarin or any blood thinner, or any photosensitizing medication, check with your pharmacist first—this product could interfere with how those work.

Start low and watch for stomach upset or sun sensitivity in the first couple of weeks.

Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI

Assessment coverage: 1 of 1 active ingredient matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Sep 25, 2025.

This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed

At a glance

General information

Key facts about Broken Cell Wall Chlorella, straight from the product label.

Brand Swanson
Barcode (UPC) 087614060064
Net contents 360 Tablet(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Sep 25, 2025
DSLD ID 337747
Product type Botanical With Nutrients
Supplement form Tablet Or Pill
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Adult (18 - 50 Years)
From the label
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.

Supplement Facts

The label details for Broken Cell Wall Chlorella by Swanson, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.

Supplement Facts

Daily Value (DV) Target Group(s):
Adults and children 4 or more years of age
Minimum serving Sizes:
2 Tablet(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
2 Tablet(s)
Servings per container
180
UPC/BARCODE
087614060064
IngredientAmount% DV
Protein1 Gram(s)--
Chlorella1 Gram(s)--

Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.

Label statements
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
Formula

Chlorella contains a comprehensive blend of vitamins, minerals, amino acids and antioxidants

Formulation

Undergoes a special process to open the plant's tough cell wall Supports overall health and wellness

Antioxidant support Green foods formula

General Statements

Science-Backed Quality Since 1969

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Suggested use: As a dietary supplement, take two tablets three times per day with water.

Precautions

Warning: For adults only. Keep out of reach of children.

Consult your physician before using this or any product if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication or have a medical condition.

Do not use if seal is broken.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place.

FDA Disclaimer Statement

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

FDA Statement of Identity

Dietary Supplement

Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.

See for yourself

Broken Cell Wall Chlorella by Swanson label

The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.

Broken Cell Wall Chlorella label

Label images are published by the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database for the version of this product on file. Always read your actual product label.

View the full label (PDF)
What’s inside

The Ingredients in Broken Cell Wall Chlorella by Swanson

These are the 2 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size2 Tablet(s) Dosage formTablet Or Pill Servings per container180 Amounts shown are per serving.

Most supplement products combine several ingredients, and a medication can interact with the product through any one of them. Each ingredient below shows whether it has known drug interactions.

Protein

1 Gram(s) per serving Form: Chlorella

Chlorella

Interacts with
337 drugs
1 Gram(s) per serving

Chlorella is a nutrient-rich freshwater green algae taken as a supplement for general wellness, immune support, and 'detox.' Some small studies sugges...

Chlorella monograph & interactions
Interaction report

Broken Cell Wall Chlorella by Swanson Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Broken Cell Wall Chlorella?

Ask about interactions with your drugs in plain English — “Can I take it with lisinopril?” — and we find you the answer in seconds, ingredient by ingredient.

 Go to the checker
337Drugs
337 Moderate

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Chlorella 337

Individual Drug Interactions

The ingredients in Broken Cell Wall Chlorella interact with 337 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.

1 of the 2 ingredients in Broken Cell Wall Chlorella interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Chlorella

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Broken Cell Wall Chlorella with known interactions, here are the types of medications it can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

Chlorella2 drug types · 337 drugs

Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, chlorella might have additive effects with photosensitizing drugs.
Chlorella has been reported to cause photosensitization. In five case reports, patients who had ingested chlorella exhibited swelling followed by erythematopurpuric lesions on sun-exposed areas of the body. Theoretically, concomitant use with photosensitizing drugs may exacerbate effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Warfarin (Coumadin)

Theoretically, chlorella might reduce the clinical effects of warfarin.
Chlorella contains significant amounts of vitamin K. There is at least one case report of warfarin therapy becoming sub-therapeutic after initiation of chlorella supplements.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Chlorella full monograph & interactions
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Broken Cell Wall Chlorella, from the product label.

Swanson

See all Swanson products
Name
Swanson Health Products
City
Fargo
State
ND
ZipCode
58104
Phone Number
1-800-437-4148
Web Address
swanson.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Broken Cell Wall Chlorella by Swanson: Common Questions

Does Broken Cell Wall Chlorella by Swanson interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Broken Cell Wall Chlorella has a known interaction with 337 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Broken Cell Wall Chlorella contains 2 active ingredients, and an interaction can come from any of them. We check every ingredient, combine the results into one list per medication, and show which ingredient and mechanism is responsible.
Where does this information come from?
The product label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD); the interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database and reviewed by HelloPharmacist pharmacists.
What is broken cell wall chlorella, and why does it matter?
Chlorella is a tiny freshwater algae. Breaking the cell wall—the algae's outer membrane—makes it easier for your body to absorb the nutrients inside. The product here is Broken Cell Wall Chlorella, so you're getting that advantage.
What side effects should I expect?
Most people tolerate it well, but stomach troubles—cramping, constipation, diarrhea, gas, and nausea—are common early on, usually within the first two weeks. Some people also report fatigue, allergic reactions, or sun sensitivity. Serious allergic reactions like anaphylaxis are rare.
I'm pregnant and have low iron. Will this help?
Chlorella is rated possibly effective for pregnancy-related iron deficiency, which means there's some promising research. But don't start without talking to your doctor first—the long-term safety data isn't solid, and your pregnancy is too important to wing it.
I'm on warfarin for my heart. Can I take this?
No, not without your doctor's okay. Chlorella is high in vitamin K, which can make warfarin less effective at preventing clots. There's at least one case report of someone's warfarin therapy failing after starting chlorella. Talk to your prescriber before considering it.
Does chlorella actually work for fatigue or depression?
The evidence we hold isn't strong enough to know. The research is insufficient to rate it for either condition. If you're thinking about using it for those reasons, ask your doctor what else might be better tested.
Will it make me more sensitive to the sun?
Chlorella can cause photosensitization—increased sun sensitivity with rashes or redness on exposed skin—especially in the first few weeks. If you notice sun-related skin reactions, cut back exposure and talk with your pharmacist.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

Not sure if Broken Cell Wall Chlorella is safe with your meds?

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Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.

Broken Cell Wall Chlorella label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind Broken Cell Wall Chlorella’s Ingredients

Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.

Herb & supplement monograph

Chlorella

Interacts with 337 drugs

Chlorella is a nutrient-rich freshwater green algae taken as a supplement for general wellness, immune support, and 'detox.' Some small studies suggest possible benefits for cholesterol, blo...

Read the full Chlorella monograph →
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Broken Cell Wall Chlorella's label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database; the ingredient interaction data is from the Natural Medicines database, reviewed by our pharmacists.

Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.

The 13 references behind this product’s interaction data

Every citation that drives the interaction findings for this product’s ingredients, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Open an ingredient to browse its citations — links open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

Chlorella 13 references
  1. Peirce A. The American Pharmaceutical Association Practical Guide to Natural Medicines. New York, NY: William Morrow and Co., 1999.
  2. Ng TP, Tan WC, Lee YK. Occupational asthma in a pharmacist induced by chlorella, a unicellular algae preparation. Resp Med 1994;88:555-7. PubMed
  3. Jitsukawa K, Suizu R, Hidano A. Chlorella photosensitization. New phytophotodermatosis. Int J Dermatol 1984;23:263-8. PubMed
  4. Merchant RE, Carmack CA, Wise CM. Nutritional supplementation with Chlorella pyrenoidosa for patients with fibromyalgia syndrome: a pilot study. Phytother Res 2000;14:167-73.
  5. Merchant RE, Rice CD, Young HF. Dietary Chlorella pyrenoidosa for patients with malignant glioma: effects on immunocompetence, quality of life, and survival. Phytother Res 1990;4:220-31.
  6. Halperin SA, Smith B, Nolan C, et al. Safety and immunoenhancing effect of a Chlorella-derived dietary supplement in healthy adults undergoing influenza vaccination: randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. CMAJ 2003;169:111-7..
  7. Ohtake, T., Negishi, K., Okamoto, K., Oka, M., Maesato, K., Moriya, H., and Kobayashi, S. Manganese-induced Parkinsonism in a patient undergoing maintenance hemodialysis. Am J Kidney Dis 2005;46(4):749-753. PubMed
  8. Ng, T. P., Tan, W. C., and Lee, Y. K. Occupational asthma in a pharmacist induced by Chlorella, a unicellular algae preparation. Respir.Med. 1994;88(7):555-557. PubMed
  9. Ohkawa, S., Yoneda, Y., Ohsumi, Y., and Tabuchi, M. [Warfarin therapy and chlorella]. Rinsho Shinkeigaku 1995;35(7):806-807.
  10. Azocar J, Diaz A. Efficacy and safety of chlorella supplementation in adults with chronic hepatitis C virus infection. World J Gastroenterol 2013;19(7):1085-90. PubMed
  11. Panahi Y, Badeli R, Karami GR, Badeli Z, Sahebkar A. A randomized controlled trial of 6-week Chlorella vulgaris supplementation in patients with major depressive disorder. Complement Ther Med 2015;23(4):598-602. PubMed
  12. Nakano S, Takekoshi H, Nakano M. Chlorella pyrenoidosa supplementation reduces the risk of anemia, proteinuria and edema in pregnant women. Plant Foods Hum Nutr 2010;65(1):25-30. PubMed
  13. Yavasoglu I, Turgutkaya A, Bolaman Z. Chlorella-induced thrombocytopenia. Sao Paulo Med J 2018;136(6):602-3. PubMed

See these in context on the Chlorella monograph →

Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC

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